The press is rolling in
Rally at capitol draws support for force in Iraq
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_1749933,00.html
By Colleen Long, Associated Press
February 16, 2003
About 300 Coloradans waving American flags and holding signs proclaiming "war is bad, evil is worse" gathered in Denver Sunday in support of using force against Iraq, in contrast to weekend rallies across the state deploring a possible war.
Pam Pearson, 49, came to the rally to support troops because her two sons are in the Navy.
"I support our president and I support my sons. This is the only option," she said. "I'd rather force Sadaam (Hussein) out than have to play by his rules."
Some residents came dressed in colonial costumes and as World War II fighters. Others held signs that said "remember 9-11?" and "self defense is always just" as state legislators and religious leaders expressed support for President Bush.
State Senate President John Andrews, R-Centennial, told the crowd war was forced upon the U.S. after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, and Bush has no other choice but to attack Iraq.
"Defense is not duct tape and endless inspection," he said. "Defense is not misguided peace marches. How about ground troops and some air support?"
State Rep. Debbie Stafford, R-Aurora, used the rally as a chance to push a bill that would mandate schools to display "In God We Trust."
"I have one thing to say to people who are not proud to be American," she said. "If you don't like this free land of America, feel free to leave."
Jeff Weaver, 38, from Golden, his wife and his two kids, ages 6 and 4, waved flags and cheered at the speeches.
"My kids are learning to love this country and the Lord," Weaver said. "I respect George Bush as a man of integrity, he's the first politician that I've seen who is actually standing up for what he believes in."
The rally, sponsored by Americans Against Terrorism, drew a handful of anti-war protesters who lined the street opposite the Capitol. Some carried signs that read, "no blood for oil."
Brad Hagstrom and his wife Mariana came down from Fort Collins and came to the rally thinking it was an anti-war protest.
What a swell time you all had! The pictures are fantastic! I'm going to have to send out my ping list for this one!!